What are biofilms in the context of wastewater treatment?

Biofilms, in the context of wastewater treatment, are communities of microorganisms that develop on surfaces, such as the walls of treatment tanks or media in biological treatment processes. These biofilms consist of bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms that adhere to a substrate and form a complex structure. They are crucial for enhancing the treatment of wastewater as they facilitate the breakdown of pollutants through natural biological processes.

The microorganisms in a biofilm actively interact with wastewater constituents, degrading organic matter and removing nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, which are essential functions for effective wastewater treatment. The surface area provided by the biofilm allows for a greater concentration of microorganisms, making the treatment process more efficient compared to if these microorganisms were suspended freely in the water.

This capability to enhance treatment through biofilms explains their significance in wastewater management, making them a fundamental aspect of biological treatment systems used in sewage treatment facilities.